“It is so hard to believe, even though it is true. It hasn’t really sunk in. The Gospel industry as a whole has lost a valuable person… Zanele made sure she represented Gospel until the formation of the Crown Gospel Music Awards that produced many talented gospel artists” gospel singer Rebecca Malope said in response to the death of Zanele Mbokazi-Nkambule.
“We are really saddened – it is unbelievable,” said Malope.
Mbokazi-Nkambule was an Ukhozi FM radio presenter and founder of the Crown Gospel Music Awards in 2007. Known as ‘Mazetzet’, she died at Parklands Hospital on 12 August at the age of 52.
Her husband, Bishop Mpendulo Nkambule, confirmed the news of her succumbing to lung cancer in a heartfelt statement in the early hours of Monday.
“It is with a heavy heart that we, the Nkambule and Mbokazi family announce the passing of our dearly beloved Zanele Mbokazi-Nkambule, founder of the Crown Gospel Music Awards and Ukhozi FM radio personality.”
‘‘She departed to be with the Lord; early hours of 12 August 2024 at Parklands Hospital. We are grateful for all the prayers, love and support we received throughout her illness. The family would appreciate privacy as we navigate through this challenging time,” said Bishop Nkambule.
She was born and based in Durban.
Mbokazi-Nkambule’s battle with lung cancer was evident in the months leading up to her diagnosis. In April, her health began to decline, causing her to miss her ‘Eshilo’ show on Ukhozi FM on Sunday, 21 April.
Mbokazi-Nkambule could not finish hosting her next show and was hospitalised shortly afterwards.
This marked the beginning of her public health struggles, and her husband later announced her cancer diagnosis on Ukhozi FM, the country’s largest national radio station based in Durban.
Tributes
The Government Communication and Information System issued a statement saying that as the founder of the Crown Gospel Music Awards, “Mbokazi-Nkambule provided a platform for gospel artists to be recognised and to showcase their talents. This contributed immensely to elevating the genre to new heights. Her dedication and love for gospel music has helped many and nurtured the growth of gospel music in South Africa.’’
Political parties such as the ANC, the EFF and the DA also paid tribute.
The ANC said it “mourns the passing of Zanele Mbokazi, beloved award-winning gospel singer and television presenter that brought South Africans a lifetime of spiritual soul. Her legacy lives on in the body of work she leaves behind”.
The EFF also sent condolences:
The EFF sends its deepest condolences to the Nkambule and Mbokazi families for the passing of Ms. Zanele Mbokazi-Nkambule, the founder of the Crown Gospel Music Awards and UKhozi FM radio personality.
May her soul rest in peace. pic.twitter.com/cDOM0gqt3z
— Economic Freedom Fighters (@EFFSouthAfrica) August 12, 2024
The DA said on X:
?️ The DA extends its heartfelt condolences to the family, friends, colleagues, and fans of Zanele Mbokazi-Nkambule, founder of the Crown Gospel Music Awards and beloved Ukhozi FM radio personality. Your voice and leadership influence will be deeply missed by many. pic.twitter.com/CDnvUAARhs
— Democratic Alliance (@Our_DA) August 12, 2024
The Speaker of the KwaZulu-Natal legislature, Nontembeko Boyce, described Mbokazi-Nkambule’s death as a huge loss for South Africa, particularly in the fight against cancer.
“We appreciate the work done by the South African National Aids Council on the cancer awareness campaign, The Pink Drive. We believe it has assisted in closing the care gap.’’
Gospel contributions
Boyce acknowledged Mbokazi-Nkambule’s contributions to building and promoting gospel music: “On behalf of the KwaZulu-Natal legislature, we appreciate and are thankful for the work done by Zanele Mbokazi-Nkambule for the Gospel fraternity. May her legacy continue to live on.’
Lesedi FM radio presenter, Seipati Seoke, known as ‘Twasa’, highlighted Mbokazi’s contribution to the gospel industry: “One of the champions of the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ has gone to be with the Lord.
“May the God of all comforts encircle you (the family, friends, and fans) with his love during this season of grief. Be encouraged, death will be defeated too. We will yet meet at our grand Sunrise.”
Details of her memorial and funeral service will be announced later
Mbokazi-Nkambule is survived by her husband and a child. DM